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A BIBLICAL DRAMA 



BENNETT 



A BIBLICAL DRAMA 



B Y 



CLARA MARION BENNETT, A. B. 







Press of The Rowland Printing Company 
Emporia, Kansas 



U6fiARY of congress] 
Two Copies Received 

.NOV 29 i907 

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COPY B. 



f 3J~ 



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Entered according to an Act of Congress, in the year 1907, 
by Clara Marion Bennett 
in the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. 



TMP92-008666 



PREFACE 

/TTHE opening act of this play was awarded first place in a 
contest open to the members of the higher English com- 
position class in the College of Emporia. Later it was com- 
pleted and prepared for publication, with full direction for 
stage management added. It is hoped it will prove interest- 
ing as reading, and when staged will inspire a greater interest 
in the beautiful stories of the Bible. 

Clara Marion Bennett. 
Emporia, Kansas. 



ROYALTY. 
This drama is issued under copyright by Clara Marion Bennett, and 
may not be staged except by arrangement with the author. 



The Gooi3 Samaritan: 

A BIBLICAL DRAMA 
Based upon Luke X : 30-35. 





Dramatia Personae. 


Joseph 


The Good Samaritan. 


Isaac 


A Merchant of Jerusalem 


Simon 


A Friend of Isaac's. 


Reuben 


Joseph's Elder Brother. 


Abner 


A Priest of the Temple. 


Nathan 


A Levite. 


Benjamin . 


An Innkeeper. 


Peter 


Isaac's Servant Boy. 


Marah 


The Wife of Isaac. 


Leah 


The Dauijhter of Isaac. 


Rebecca 


A Hand Maiden. 



Robber Chief and Several Robbers. Jews, Syrians, Romans, 
etc., in market scene. 

Time — During the ministry of Christ. 



Act I. 
Act II. 



Act III. 



Synopsis ' 

A room in Isaac's house. Evening. 
Scene 1. A rocky pass, five miles from Jerusalem. 
About noon next day. 

Scene 2. A room in an inn. Early the next morn- 
ing after Scene 1. 

Scene 1. The market place, within the Jaffa Gate. 
Same day as Scene 2, Act II. 
Scene 2. A room in Isaac's house. Same day. 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN: 

A BIBLICAL DRAMA. 
ACT I— Scene 1. 

A room in Isaac's house. There is a latticed window back center, and 
one in left wall. Doors at right and left of window in back; one in 
right wall also. The floor is covered with rugs; cushions and stools placed 
near the walls. Several large candlesticks and two tables are seen in the 
room. Marah and Leah, in tunic, cloak and girdle, but with veil thrown 
back, are seated on stools near center, sewing richly-colored curtains. At 
rise of curtain, Marah and Leah are discovered singing, either a few stanzas 
of a well known hymn or a metrical version of some psalm. 

Marah. Leah, my daughter, thou must sing that song for 
thy father when he comcth from his business. 

Leah. Thou knowest, mother, that my voice hath little 
music in it. 

Mar. Nay, child, thy voice is ever sweet music to thy 
father's ear, for thou art his dearest earthly treasure. 

Le. I knew not that he loved me so; he is ever stern and 
cold. 

Mar. 'Tis but his manner. Thou art our only child, and 
the duty of training thee sitteth heavily upon him. 

Le, Ah, mother, if my father holdeth me so dear, why hath 
he bidden me to accept Jacob? For Jacob is old, and hath a 
nature that few could love. 



8 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

Mar. Thou art of age to be married, and thy father is old 
and wisheth to get thee settled. Jacob hath ample means and 
a house of exceeding comfort here in Jerusalem. 

Le. But, mother, I like him not; and I need not marry him 
if I do not wish. 

Mar. But thy father's wish should be thy law. Obey him 
in all things, and thy future years shall be v/ithout regret. 

Le. How can I think of Jacob, when my heart is given to 
Joseph? 

Mar, Think no more of Joseph, for thy heart will be torn 
for naught. 

Le. Mother, thinkest thou that aught will change my father 
to look with favor upon Joseph? He is a good youth, and 
were he not of Samaria he would be bidden to the house. 

Mar. Nay, daughter; thy father is bitter toward all Sama- 
ritans. They be apart from us and we may have no inter- 
course w^ith them. 

Le. Biit Joseph surely differeth from others; he hath a 
noble air. 

Mar. Yea, he seemeth a good youth. 

Le. {clasping her mother's hands). Ah, mother, thou hast 
a tender heart, and I dare unfold a plan to thee. On the mor- 
row, when my father setteth forth for Jericho, may I not send 
Rebecca to the market-place with a message? A kinsman of 
Joseph's selieih silken stuffs there, and mayhap he can get 
word to Joseph. Ah, it is bitter to— 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 9 

(Enter Isaac, hurriedly, R. c.) 

Isaac. Marah, my plans have fallen ill. My new servant- 
boy, Peter, did overhear my words to friend Simon this morn- 
ing, as I made know^n to him that I purposed to ride to Jeri- 
cho with jewels for the merchants there. Soon after, Peter 
w^ent out by a rear door, and friend Simon sav/ him in deep 
converse w^ith a stranger of evil appearance. 

Le. Oh, father, thou wilt not attempt this perilous journey. 

Is, Yea, I will go; my word is given to the merchants of 
Jericho. Friend Simon counseleth that I go as a beggar, with 
my jewels concealed in a sheepskin bag. 'Tis shrewd advice, 
and I shall follow it. 

Mar. But, Isaac, can'st thou trust Simon with all thy busi- 
ness affairs? Methinks he hath a crafty look, and he always — 

Is. Nay, he is most trustworthy. My affairs have I given 
in charge to him till I come hither again. Bid Rebecca come 
to me. 

(Leah strikes a silver gong on a small table by her side. 
Enter Rebecca, l.) 

Is. Rebecca, hast made all preparations for my journey on 
the morro%\r? 

Rebecca. I am even now sewing thy riding-cloak. 

Is. 'Tis well; continue thy preparations, I have changed 
my plan, but I would not it were known to other of the 
household. Prepare sufficient food for my journey and pro- 
cure a pair of heavy sandals. 



10 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

(A smothered laugh is heard from the courtyard below.) 

Is. Ha! Who was that? 'Tis strange! All the servants 
should be at their evening tasks. 

(Rebecca ^oes to the window at the rear.) 

Re. {looking cautiously down info the courtyard). It is thy 
friend Simon, talking to thy servant Peter. 

Le. Ah, father, it bodeth ill when — 

Is. Peace! He is my trusted friend. Mayhap he giveth 
orders to Peter, for I have given him command over all my 
servants. 

Re. {still standing beside the window). Peter laugheth with 
delight and thy friend giveth him a piece of money. Be v are. 

Is, {impatiently). "Woman, hold thy tongue. It becometh 
thee not to babble of things above thy knowledge. Go to thy 
duties. {Exit Rebecca, l.) 

Mar. Isaac, it liketh me not, the look of this journey. 
Such jewels as thine are known to be would tempt many to 
robbery; if need were, to murder. Take with thee sevei-al 
trusty servants, if the journey must needs be made; but go 
thou not alone. 

Is. Nay, nay, Marah. These robbers, of whom much talk 
hath been of late, plunder in bands of ten or twelve. They 
hide in the rocky fastnesses and fall upon any that look to 
be prosperous. Him that appeareth with a guard they straight- 
way suspect; but a solitary beggar scarcely will they molest. 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 11 

Mar. Mayhap, 'tis so; but my heart misgivcth mc. 

Is. Daughter, would'st thou look upon my jewels? Some 
arc sold already to wealthy men at Jericho. {He opens his 
leathern jewel-case.) 

Le. {uttering a cry of delight). Oh, father, this heavy brace- 
let of curious workmanship, how would I it were mine! 

Is. {looking at her slyly). My good friend Jacob hath pur- 
chased one like unto this; I know not but that thou shalt 
receive it shortly. 

Le. {turning coldly away). Nay, 'tis not so beautiful as I 
thought. Methinks the design is too gorgeous, and the clasp 
is most clumsy. 

Is. It is not meet for a daughter to scorn the offer of a 
father's friend. Thy mother hath told thee, hath she not? 

Le. Yea, father, she hath told me. Thou knowest that I 
have been an obedient daughter; but force me not to marry 
this man. 

Is. Enough. Thinkcst thou I know not what hath caused 
thy distaste for Jacob? Have I not seen that white-faced 
youth, that dog of Samaria, holding converse with thee in 
my courtyard? I have bidden the servants drive him hence 
if again he ventures hither. When I come from Jericho, 
preparations for thy marriage with Jacob shall be toward, and 
I will brook no disobedience on thy part. I have spoken. 
And now to bed, for I must hence early on the morrow. 

CURTAIN. 



12 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

ACT II— Scene 1. 

A rocky pass on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho, The path is back 
about six feet from front of stage, and three feet higher than floor of stage. 
This allows space in front of pass (next to audience) to be used as a diich. 
The elevation can be constructed easily, covered to look like a barren road, 
with artificial rocks disjiosed in places. The path slants upward from 
right to left, Jerusalem being situated on higher ground than Jericho. This 
spot is about five miles from Jerusalem. In the foreground (in the ditch) 
the robber chief, Malachi, sits cross-legged, counting money. He is a large 
man, of ferocious aspect; his head is bandaged, and his clothing is torn and 
dirty. 

Malachi {taking coins out of a silver vase and putting them in 
a leathern girdle). One, two, three, four, {continues counting 
and mumbling). Aba! fifty shekels more to add to the two 
hundred in my girdle. 'Tis well my conscience hurteth me 
not, for I can rob Jew or Gentile; nor doth it pain me to 
make choice between them. 'Tv/ill grieve the priests of J.l'u- 
salem to miss their golden shekels, but 'twill do them small 
good to mourn. {Pats his belt gloatingly. Enter a robber from 
R., with bag of money.) 

RoBBEF. Micah hath plundered a company of rich Gen- 
tiles, and sendeth the money by me. 

Mal. Why Cometh he not hither? 

Ro3, He and his few followers v/ere beset by the mer- 
chants and wounded sore. Even now he bideth yonder, being 
attended for a grievous v/ound upon his head. 

Mal. 'Tis well. Bring the others hither. {Exit robber, e,) 
I must needs be cautious w^ith my band, lest they suspect how 
great treasure I have taken to myself alone. {A shrill whistle, 
R,) They come. I must hasten. {He slips several large coins 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 13 

inio folds of his clothes, and fastens on hts girdle.) There, 'tis 
but little more than my due. {Another whistle, r., closer.) 
Come! 

{Enter five disreputable- looking robbers.) 

First Rob. 'Tis yet early in the morning. Why hast thou 
called us? 

Mal, To reason of our work. This our labor prospercth 
us nothing, for it hath been tv/o days since we have made 
aught of gain upon this highway. 

Second Rob. Of a truth, 'tis so. But on the morrow come 
the wine merchants from Jericho, with empty wine-skins but 
full purses. Then — {looks longingly up the road.) 

Third Rob. {who has clambered up to the roadway and looks 
to L.) Ho! comrades, methinks I see a lone traveler in the dis- 
tance. {After a pause.) Nay, his coming profiteth us not, for 
he is a beggar. He limpeth, and is clad in veriest rags. 

{Enter Micah bandaged, drawing the servant-boy, Peter, 
after him by the eaf.) 

Mal. What hast thou there, Micah? 

Mic. This fellow ran to me but now, demanding to have 
speech with Malachi. 

Mal. What meanest thou, fellow? 

Peter {whimpering). 'Twas Simon, the money-changer, 
that sent me. I came not sooner because I was stoned by a 
swineherd. He stuck out his tongue at me, and when I struck 
him he picked up — 



14 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

Mal. {impatiently). Cease! Care I to hear thy petty hurts? 
What saith Simon? 

Pet. He bade me tell thee that this very day my master, 
Isaac, the jewel-merchant, journeyeth alone to Jericho, with 
a packet of rich gems. 

Mal. Alone! Would'st thou have us to believe that a jewel- 
merchant traveleth alone? 

Pet. Nay, but 'tis true; he traveleth so to turn away 
suspicion. 

Mal, (aside.) Aha! choice gems for the wealthy of Jericho; 
and Simon expecteth, as ever, of late, a third part of the 
spoil. {Aloud.) Knoweth Simon the contents of the packet? 

Pet. Yea, he bade me tell thee that he knoweth the 
w^orth of every piece. 

Mal. So, Simon, thou art crafty ever. {To Peter.) "When 
doth thy master come? 

Pet. He should be here anon. {Looks up, l.) He cometh. 
Alas, what have I done? I would not see him wounded. 

{Pulls away from Micah and starts to run, L. Robbers seize him 
and pull him back to R.) 

Mal. Let him go by a side path; he can do no harm. (Peter 
runs off, R.) Methinks this is some trick. Yonder traveler 
scemeth in very sooth to be a beggar. {Pointing up, l.) How- 
beit, Simon hath ever told me true, though he hath an 
exceeding covetous nature and ever demandeth more than 
his share. 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 15 

Mic. Shall we not rob him, then? 
Mal. Yea, it hurteth not. Follow me. 

{TAey creep toward right of stage and hide behind rocks. 
Isaac comes on slotvly from the lefty on the high path. He limps 
along zvith the aid of a staff. When a little past the center ^ near 
the rights he is attacked by the robber s., xvho pull him into the 
ditch and beat him. They take hts cloak and bag of jevjels 
leaving him insensible in the ditch. Exeunt robbers^ R After a 
moment the priest. Abner, enters at l., attired in rich vestments. 
His hands are folded and his eyes are raised toward heaven.^ 

Abner {speaking unciiously). Yea, verily, Jehovah hath 
prospered his chosen people. Many new faces did I see at 
the temple today, and methinks the people did look w^ith 
wonder upon the robes of the priests. {Looks toward back of 
stage.) Just tw^o more miles by yonder side path to the 
country home of Jabez, and then a good meal and rich wine 
for my trouble. Friend Jabez w^axeth rich with his numer- 
ous herds and extensive vineyards. He thinketh overmuch 
of worldly gain. I must chide him gently; yea, very gently, 
lest he — 

(Isaac feebly moans, "Help! Help/") 

Ab. {looking down). Ah, what have we here? An old man 
wounded by robbers. Alas ! I would I could aid him; but he 
is clothed in rags and filth, and my robe is new and unsoiled. 
Doubtless another traveler will pass by and relieve him. 



16 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

{Looks complacently at his shining robe and hurries on to R., 
muttering.) Sad, very sad indeed. {Exit, r.) 

{After a moment, enter a Levite, Nathan, cautiously from L.; 
looks after priest.) 

Nathan, I would not that Abner saw me, for I should be 
in the city now. 'Tis but a small way further, and I would 
see Dorcas before the morrow. She shall make plain to me 
about those unripe olives, for hardly shall my sister be coz- 
ened by a country woman. (Isaac calls faintly. Nathan starts 
and exclaims.) 'Tis a thief ! (Looking down.) Nay, 'tis but a 
wounded beggar. I would I could help him, but I must not 
tarry; it were not safe with thieves so near. Mayhap another 
will pass by and aid him. (Passes rapidly out at R.) 

(Commotion at R. A voice is heard speaking soothingly to some 
animal. Joseph appears at R.; looks hack and speaks.) 

Joseph. Rest a few moments, good beast; we arc both in 
need of refreshment. (He seats himself on a stone near right 
entrance, and takes a drink from a skin of water.) 'Tis but 
five miles further to Jerusalem, and my brother needeth not 
this bundle of silks until the morrow. (Musing.) Jerusalem — 
and Leah. Dare I speak the loved name aloud? Dare I draw 
nigh her dwelling and look upon her sweet face again? Nay, 
it were not meet that I should think to do it. Her father 
holdeth me in scorn; and as for my wooing of his daughter— 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 17 

am I not a Samaritan? {Sighs.) Could I but see him — but he 
never dealeth with me, for the Jews have no dealings with 
the Samaritans. Ah, the injustice of it, {Meditates, leaning 
against a rock, with his face turned toward the sky.) "As ye 
would that men should do to you, do ye also to them like- 
wise." Ail this day have those words haunted me. How 
came I to think of them? {Suddenly starting.) Now, I bethink 
me. 'Twas as I journeyed far from home, near Capernaum, I 
did pass near a mount whereon a multitude was gathered, 
and a young man, a new prophet, they said, did preach. But 
those few words did come to mine ear as I passed by. A 
gentle face had that prophet, full of unearthly love and — but 
stay, his name — 'twas Jesus of Nazareth. Though he be the son 
of a carpenter, yet claimeth he to be the Messiah. Methinks 
he preacheth nigh this place even now. My brother hath 
heard of many miracles that he hath wrought. And what 
manner of rule for life is that — "As ye would that men should 
do to you, do ye also to them likewise?" May strength be 
mine to follow it always, even in the hour of greatest temp- 
tation. {Lifting his arms.) O thou Great Jehovah, who look- 
est down upon the children of men, help the Samaritan. 
Many are the sneers, much the reviling, that we have to bear. 
If Jesus of Nazareth be indeed thy Son, send him. Father, to 
Samaria, that my people may believe on him. {Slowly drops 
his arms and sees Isaac for the first time.) Ah, 'tis a poor old 
beggar, soi'ely wounded. Happy the hand that led me hither, 
for I will succor him. (Goes down to Isaac, pours oil into his 



18 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 



y^ounds, and binds them. Isa^c does not regain consciousness, 
and Joseph carries him back toward k., murmuring.) Poor old 
man. I will put him upon my beast and hasten to a wayside 
inn. where he may heal him of his grievous wounds. (Exit, R.) 

CURTAIN. 



ACT II— Scene 2. 

A room in an inn, early the next morning. A rude interior scene. Isaac 
lyfnrrti^onless upon a couch. Joseph seated near h.m. drowsily noddn... 

Joseph. It hath seemed an overlong night; but I dared not 
leave the old man alone lest he should be in need of aught. 
This inn-keeper liketh not the look of the wounded beggar- 
though much I doubt if he be a beggar. {Looks questioningly 
af Isaac. Voices outside. Enter inn-keeper from rear door.) 
INNK. Peace be to thee, sir. Hath the old man awakened? 
Jos. Nay, he still sleepeth. He hath not spoke nor stirred 
through all the night. 

iNNK. Thou hadst better seek repose thyself. 
Jos. {rising). Nay, I needs must go. I have tarried over- 
much, for my brother expecteth the silks {pointing to the bun- 
dies on the floor) for the booth today. Here are two pence. 
Keep the poor man till I come hither again, and I will repay 
thee whatsoever thou hast spent more. 

INNK. Thou are a good youth and deserve the blessing of 

heaven. 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 19 

Jos. Fare thee well. (Picks up his bundles and goes out, 
rear.) 

Innk. Fare tliee well. {Puts wet cloth to Isaac's head-) Ah, 
that was a noble young man. Would that ray son were like 
him. 

(Isaac stirs and tries to rise.) 

Is. Where am I? 

Innk. Thou bidest in good hands; fear not. Art thou in 
pain? 

Is. Nay, my v/ounds trouble me not so much as the won- 
der of my position. Ah, now it cometh to me. I passed 
along the road to Jericho, v/ith my bag of jewels — 

Innk. Jewels! Thou! Where did'st thou steal them? 

Is. Sir, I am a jewel-merchant of Jerusalem; but I did dis- 
guise myself as a beggar, for greater safety in carrying my 
gems. But as I joixrneyed, being about five miles from 
Jerusalem, thieves leaped upon me from behind a great rock 
by the highway. They struck me to the earth, and I knew no 
more. 

Innk. But, sir, wherefore dealt they so with thee, taking 
thee for a penniless beggar? 

Is. Thus I conceive it: Of late I did employ a new servant- 
boy, Peter, of whom I knew naught. As I declared unto a 
friend, Simon by name, my purposed journey to Jericho, Peter 
stood nearby. Not long after, friend Simon beheld him talk- 
ing to an evil-looking man in the courtyard. Then did Simon 



20 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

warn me to disguise myself as a beggar, that none might sus- 
pect me; and so I did prepare with great secrecy, Yet 
shrewdly I surmise this same Peter overheard all and did 
betray me. 

Innk. Mayhap thy friend is deceitful and did tell the ser- 
vant himself. 

Is, {with dignity.) Nay, he is my trusted friend. And 
now, sir, if thou wilt find for me a beast, I will straightway 
set off toward home. Bereft thus of my jewels, it needs not 
that I journey on to Jericho. Alas! Jehovah hath dealt heavily 
with me. But I must on; perchance — 

Innk. But, sir, thy wounds? 

Is. They trouble me not; besides I shall ride. I will 
return home at once, that I may bestir myself to recover my 
gems, {Then putting his hand to his head.) Oh, I had w^ell nigh 
forgot — how came I here? How found'st thou me? 

Innk. I found thee not. A young man of noble bearing 
brought thee hither. He found thee beside the road, and he 
took pity upon thee and brought thee to this inn. He hath 
even paid me for thy lodging, and hath assured me of my 
recompense for thy reckoning when he shall return. 

Is. "Wondrous kind; for I doubt not he took me for a beg- 
gar. Hast thou no further knowledge of him? 

Innk. He was on his way to Jerusalem. Mayhap thou 
wilt see him there. 

Is. How shall I know him? Tell me, good sir. 

Innk. Mark thou well. His cloak was fastened with a 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 21 

locust of beaten silver, and — ah, yes, over his right eye was a 
small white scar. 

Is. As the Lord livetli, I will seek him in the city, and 
right v/ell shall he be recompensed. Hast tliou any beast 
w^ithin thy stable? 

Innk. Behold now there standeth an ass in my courtyard. 
He will bear thee to the city, and thou may'st send him 
hither again by a servant. 

Is. Thou, too, art most kind. But that young man — when 
I have found him, he shall be presented in my household, and 
all that lieth in me will I do to further his welfare. {Then, 
as inn-keeper offers to assist him.) Nay, I am stronger now^; I 
need not thy help. Fare thee well. (Isaac moves slowly away.) 

Innk. May thy beard never grow less, noble sir. ( Then as 
Isaac £oes out.) Heaven forward thy search, and may'st thou 
find the youth and prosper him in his business; for he did 
that for thee which scarce any would dare. Long may he 
live in the land of his fathers. I will get me at once to 
my duties, ere the heat of the day become a burden. {Exit 
inn-keeper.) 

(CURTAIN.) 

ACT III— Scene 1. 

The market-place, just within the Jaffa Gate. People of different nation, 
alities are passing to and fro. The stalls of merchandise are all decorated* 
while tradesmen are crying their wares to prospective purchasers. In the 
foreground is a booth full of silken stuffs, kept by a young- man of noble 



22 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

mein. It is Reuben, the brother of Joseph. Rebecca enters, at left, and 
looks about She saes Reuben's stall and comes swiftly toward it. 

Reu. Greeting, maid. Would'st thou look at silken stuffs 
this morning? 

Re. Nay, good sir, though I shall feign to do so. ( Then, 
looking through the silks.) 'Tis about thy brother Joseph I have 
Gome. 

Reu. {clutching the table,) Ha! 'tis evil news? 

Re. Nay, tis good. 

Reu. Then he hath not been waylaid by thieves? 

Re. I know not. I bear him message from my mistsess. 
Is he not here? 

Reu. Nay, he bringeth silks from foreign parts for me to 
sell today. He should have been here yesterday at the sev- 
enth hour. I know not what keepeth him. My heart mis- 
giveth me lest some foul mischance — 

Re. Be not anxious, good sir, I pray thee. But I must not 
tarry here. Give him this message when he cometh. (She 
slips a note to him under cover of the bolt of silk.) 

Reu. Fare thee well, maid. (Exit Rebecca, l. Reuben 
muses.) Methinks she must be the servant of old Isaac's 
daughter, the beautiful Leah. And this {putting the note in 
his bosom) is a message from her. Ah, Joseph, Joseph, I fear 
me thy suit is without hope. "We of Samaria may never mate 
with the chosen ones of Jerusalem, ( Takes down a manu- 
script and reads.) "He is despised and rejected of men, a man 
of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and we hid as it were 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 23 

our faces from him; he was despised and we esteemed him 
not." Yea, so it is written by the prophet Isaiah. Jesus, 
son oi Mary, claimcth to be the Messiah; and some believe on 
him, though the greater part revile him. Surely the times be 
not yet ripe for the Son of God to appear; yet wondrous are 
the works of this prophet Jesus and his followers. All Judea 
talketh of his teachings, and many do follow them openly- 
Of a truth, one must needs believe, seeing the good that he 
doeth. {Looking up the street, L.) There cometh Joseph 
Safe! Praise be to Thee, O God, for his safe return. {Enter 
Joseph, l.) 

Jos. Greetings, my brother. {They embrace.) 

Reu. I feared for thee, brother Joseph. What hath be- 
fallen thee, to keep thee so long away? 

Jos. As I came hither from Jericho, being but five miles 
from the city gates, I found a poor old beggar by the wayside. 
He was wounded nigh to death; and I pitied him, and took 
him to an inn. All the night I watched by him, and on the 
morrow, this very morning in sooth, I gave the keeper of the 
inn two pence to make him all comfort till I should return. 

Reu. Two pence! Hard are the times, and thou can'st ill 
afford it, Joseph, Yet thou wert ever thus, caring always for 
the weak. Well I remember how, in thy childhood, thou 
did'st nurse the wounded sheep and lambs. Once, thou 
did'st weep all day but to see a couple of singing birds in a 
cage of gilded riishes. 

Jos. Tut, Reuben! Thou also hast a tender heart, though 



24 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

thou giv'st not way to vain fears. And as for the beggar, 
thou knowest I did but my duty. Our father taught us ever 
to do thus. I remember, too, the bidding of him whom they 
say to be the Mesaiah, "Do unto others as ye w^ould they do 
unto you." So I recall it. Is not that a noble motto? 

Reu. Yea, Joseph; many are the wise sayings of that 
teacher. Believest thou in him, my brother. 

Jos. Reuben, I fear thou wilt laugh at me; but last night, as 
I sat by the side of the poor wounded sufferer at the inn, it 
seemed I heard a voice speaking to me and saying, "As ye do 
it unto the least of these my bretheren, ye do it also unto me." 
I looked around. No man was nigh. The beggar still slept 
on. Yet the woi-ds kept ringing through the room. Call me 
foolish, an thou v/ilt, but I feel that 'tis a sign from heaven 
that Jesus is the true Messiah. 

Reu. Ah, Joseph, these are troublous times, I know not 
what to believe. But be thou careful of publishing thy 
beliefs, for many are his enemies, both hei'e and in Samaria. 
{Shaking his head.) Some there be in Samaria who believe on 
him. One woman, indeed, who met him (so she saith) near 
Jacob's "Well, tellcth everywhere of his goodness. She is a 
w^oman of no reputation, yet many give ear to lier testimony. 

Jos. Ke hath been near Samaria, then? "Would that I had 
been there. If Leah, now, should tell — 

Reu. Aye, brother, I had v/ell nigh forgot; a servant 
woman came but now ^sfith message from her mistress to thee. 

Jos. {eagerly) Hast thoii it? Give it me. (Reuben gives 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 25 

him the note. Joseph reads.) Ah, I must hasten. Listen, Reu- 
ben. "Joseph, can'st thou come to our house this day and 
intercede with my mother? My father hath gone to Jericho, 
and thou can'st come in safety. Father hath given encourage- 
ment to one Jacob, a Levite, whom I have seen but twice; and 
I needs must marry him, unless thou can'st persuade my 
mother to reason with my father. Ever thine own, Leah. 
Dear maid, I come. 

Reu, But, Joseph, hast thou asked her in marriage? I 
thought thou had'st seen her but twice. 

Jos. So, indeed, it is. Bixt a youth must needs make haste 
with a pearl like Leah, for she hath many suitors. When first 
we looked upon each other, 'tv/as in a multitude. We spoke 
not; but her great dark eyes made answer to mine own. I 
sought out her name and her dwelling; and by her maid 
Rebecca I sent message to have speech with her. 

Reu. Knew she that thou wert a Samaritan? 

Jos. Not then. "Tell this young man," so sent she token 
by her maid, "that not this day may he have speech with me, 
but on the morrow." And so it was that upon the morrow 
she came dov/n unto me in her couityard and spake with me. 
''Knowest thou," I said, "knowest thou that I am a Samaritan?" 
She started; then she bent her gaze ixpon me and murmured 
in a voice of sweetest music, "Are we not all children of the 
Heavenly Father?" 

Reu. Did'st thou ask to sec Isaac? 

Jos. Yea, I spake out, "I love thee, Leah, and fain would 



26 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

speak with thy father;" but before she could answer, an 
angry voice bade her presently into the house, and I perforce 
must go my way, so for that time I saw her no more. 

Reu. How can it speed thy suit to talk with the mother of 
Leah? Doth not Isaac rule his household with an iron hand? 
and dares she cross him? 

Jos. Nevertheless, I shall try. Fare thee well. 

Reu. Wait, the silks! My business is ruined. O, where- 
fore did'st thou divert me with thy talc of love? 

Jos. Content thee, Reuben; thy silks are just within the 
Jaffa Gate, guarded by a trusty man. I will send them hither 
at once. 

Reu. Forgive mc, brother, for mine anger. 

Jos. Yea, gladly. And now I go to Leah. Farewell 
{Exit, R.) 

Reu. Farewell. God speed thee in thy suit. I must hence 
and fetch my merchandise. Yonder it lieth, by the Gate. 
{Exit, L.) 

(CURTAIN.) 



ACT III~SCENE 2. 

A room in Isaac's house. Marah and Leah sewing, as in Act 1. 

Mar. I fear for thy father, Leah. We should not have 
suffered him to go unattended. 

Le. Suffered him! Thou knowest that our words have no 
weight with him, mother. 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 27 

Mar. Leah, child, speak not disrespectfully of thy father. 

Re. {entering with a package, l.) A servant of Jacob's 
hath delivered this to my hand for thee. {Gives package to 
Leah.) 

Le. For viel {Unwraps bracelet.) Ah, the bracelet. Give 
it to him ajiain, Rebecca. 

Mar. But, Leah, be not discourteous. It is a beautiful gift 
and ^ould look well with thy jasper necklace. 

Le. Nay, mother, to receive it were to look with favor 
upon his suit. I will not. Take it, Rebecca. {Exit, Re- 
becca, L.) 

Mar. Much I fear for thee, Leah; thy father will not brook 
a rebellious spirit. 

Le. Mother, why hath my father such a stern, unyielding 
manner, if he hath accepted the new faith? He believeth on 
Jesus, doth he not? 

Mar. I know not, Leah. I would that I knew of a surety. 
He must not be told as yet that we believe, for he knoweth 
not that we have ever left the house to hear this Jesus preach. 

Le. Ah, mother, that one glimpse of Jesus did melt my 
heart. A face so full of love unearthly have I never seen. 
He looked down with the tenderness of a mother upon the 
people gathered to hear him, and when he raised his eyes 
towards heaven he seemed to commune with the eternal 
Father. And he spoke, not like the scribes, but as one hav- 
ing authority, with a power that seemed of God. 

Mar. Leah, Leah! I burn to hear him speak again. Still do 



28 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

1 catch liis gentle voice. Oh, never mau spake as he spake. 

If thy father hath but — CRebecca enters l. with a pleased 

smile.) 

Le. Rebecca, did'st thou send back the bracelet? 

Re. Yea, mistress. But a young man waiteth below to 
speak with thy mother. 

Mar. "With mc? Bring him hither, Rebecca. {Exit Re 
BECCA, l.) 

Le. (throwing herself on her knees.) Oh, mother, mother! 
I did send word to Joseph, asking of him that he come and 
speak with thee. 

Mar. (shocked). In thy father's absence! My child! 

Le. Oh, mother, forgive me. I love Joseph, though I have 
seen him but a few times. Would'st thou have me marry 
Jacob? 

Mar. God forbid, my daughter, for he is not a good man; 
but thy father hath spoken. 

{Enter Rebecca, followed by Joseph. Exit Rebecca, l.) 

Le. (rising.) This is my mother, Joseph. 

Mar, Greeting, sir. Be seated. 

Jos. Mother of Leah, my heart is full. I know not where 
to begin. I love thy daughter. 

Mar. Alas, good youth, she hath been promised. It griev- 
cth my heart, for thou art young and good to look upon. 

Jos. Can'st thou not speak for me to thy husband? It 
needeth not that he answer presently, for I go on a journey 
and may not come again for many days. 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 29 

Le. {apprehensively.) A journey, Joseph? 

Jos. Yea, to follow the new prophet and to hear his teach- 
ings. 

Le. {eagerly.) Thou ari a believer? (Then reproachfully.) 
Oh, thou tolcl'st me noi. 

Jos. But I know not. But once have I seen this Jesus, and 
from afar. But once have I heard him. I would know more, 
for tales of his wondrous works are sounded abroad, even 
through Samaria. 

Le. Samaria! Oh, woe! I had forgot that my father bitterly 
hateth all Samaritans. {Starting at a confusion of noises out- 
side.) What is that? {Looks from window and wrings her 
hands.) Mother! Joseph! It is my father. Joseph, hide! hide! 

Jos. Nay, I shall meet him face to face. 

Mar. I pray thee, good sir, betake thee into this room 
(goes to R.) until my husband be calmer, for something hath 
surely gone amiss that he returneth so early. 

Le. Pray do as my mother biddeth thee, Joseph, just for a 
little time. For my sake, Joseph. 

Jos. As thou wilt. I like it not, but for thy sake I will. 
{He steps into room on R. Leah seats herself again.) 
{Enter Isaac supported by Simon.) 

Si. a couch. I met Isaac at the door. He hath been 
wounded. 

Mar. Oh, Isaac, art thou ill? {Assists Isaac to a couch.) 

Is. {from couch.) Nay, not now. My wounds do heal 
apace. 



30 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

Le. Thy wounds? What evil hap o'crtook thee, father? 

Is. Thieves laid violent hands upon me and robbed me of 
my jewels. 

Mar and Le. {together.) Woe! Woe! 

Is. Yea, they left mc by the roadside to die. Ere long a 
priest came down the road, but his mind was on higher 
things than earth, and his eyes were raised tow^ard heaven. I 
called for help, but feebly, for I was sore afflicted. He looked 
down upon me and turned the other way. 

Mar. Cruel! And a priest! 

Is. Likewise, after a little, came a Levite, Weakness was 
upon me and I could not cry, but I groaned aloud. He started, 
looked sadly down upon me, and hurried away. 

Le. Ah! 'tis a cruel world. 

Is. Then my strength quite failed me, and I knew no more 
until I awoke in a wayside inn. 

Mar. How cam'st thou there? 

Is. Mine host spoke to me of a noble young man who had 
brought me thither on his own beast, had watched by mc 
through all the night, and departing had paid the score of my 
lodging. 

Si. (sancfimoniously.) A noble deed! A noble deed! 

Re. {entering l.) One waiteth below, sir, desiring to see 
thee upon business. 

Is. Scarce have I the heart for business today. Simon, 
thou knowest all my affairs; go thou down and do as seemeth 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 31 

fit to thee. 'Tis likely Nahum who comcth for the ruby clasp 
that is in ray sandalwood box. 

Si. Yea, Isaac, trust me. I shall see to thy affairs with all 
discretion, (Exit l.) 

Is. Friend Simon is most carcfvil. His love and care for 
me hath equal only in the devotion of that young man who 
rescued me and found me refuge at the inn. I was clothed in 
rags, a beggar, yet he aided me. It was a deed scarce matched 
for generous thought. He must needs have learned his kind- 
ness from the Christ himself. 

Le. Dost thou believe that Jesus is the Son of God, my 
father? (Marah and Leah draw closer to Isaac.) 

Is. Yea, I have had change of heart since my journey. 
Almost did I believe on Jesus ere my start, but a vision hath 
confirmed 

Mar. a vision? What saw'st thou, Isaac? 

Is. Naught clear; but it seemed that I saw the face of Jesus 
as he looked when once I beheld him preach; and I heard a 
voice of infinite tenderness saying, "This is my beloved Son 
in whom I am well pleased." 

Le. Oh, father! would that I had heard. 

Is. Ye also believe? 

Mar. Yea, Isaac, we have been persuaded of the truth, lo, 
these many days. 

Is. Many are the doubting ones in Jerusalem. Jacob hath 
told me that he thinkcth Jesus to be a sorcerer and a deluder. 

Le. Father, thoii wilt not force me to marry Jacob? 



32 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

Is. Nay, child, thoii need's! fear that no longer. Twerc 
meet that thou should'st marry the young man who did res« 
cue me, if I should find him, my daughter. 

Mar. How cans't thou know him, Isaac, if thou hast never 
seen him? 

Is, The inn-keeper told me that I might discover him by 
the clasp he wore, a locust of beaten silver. The youth bear- 
eth, too, above his right eye, a small white scar. 

Le. {crying out.) It was my Joseph! Oh, day of joy! {run- 
ning to door, F.) Joseph, come hither. Hast thou heard? 

Jos. Yea, I heard. 

Is. {rising angrily.) Thou! {sinking hack.) It needs must 
be. The clasp; the scar. 

Le. It was thou, Joseph? 

Jos. Yea, but I knew not it was thy father. 

(Rebecca enters, l., hurriedly, followed by Peter.) 

Re. Peter hath returned, sir, and would speak with thee. 

Is. Thou hast repented of thy treachery, Peter? Art thou 
of that band of thieves? 

Peter. Nay, sir, I am of no band of thieves, Al\'/ays have 
I served thee faithfully until Simon tempted me. 

Is, Simon! Have care what thou sayest, 

Peter. Hear me, my master, I tell thee true. Simon came 
to me, 'tis but three days since, and offered me money to bear 
message for him. I laughed for joy, for behold, did he not 
offer me two shekels to do so light a task? 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 33 

Re. Yea, I saw thee from the window, and straightway I 
doubted of Simon's honesty. 

Is. "What more, boy? 

Peter, "When he bade me warn the robbers of thy approach 
with the jewels I cried out against it. But he did threaten 
mc, and I dared not but obey him. 

Is. (sadly.) Scarce can I believe it. For why should Simon 
have dealings with robbers? Is he not an honest man of 
Jerusalem? 

Peter. That I know not. But this I know — that he 
leagueth himself with Malachi, the robber chief. And this 
same Malachi receivcth double portion of all he extorteth 
from such travelers as Simon warneth him of, and Simon gct- 
teth to himself the rest. 

Is. It cannot be! It cannot be! 

Peter, {handing Isaac a package.) Even now have I been 
to Simon's house, and I have found hid there these gems; they 
be Simon's share from the robbery. 

Is. {opening the package.) Ah, woe! What shall I 

Si. {appearing at the door, l.) Yea, Isaac, it was Nahum, 

seeking the ruby clasp; and never saw I an {seeing Peter 

for the first time; then casting a despairing" glance at the jewels 

in Isaac's hand.) Peter hath told? 

Is. Oh, Simon! Simon! I trusted thee. 

Si. (coming near Isaac and falling upon his knees.) Oh, Isaac! 
look not upon me so. 

Is. Dida't thou hate me, Simon, that thou could'st do me 
such wrong? 



34 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

Si. Nay, Isaac, 'twas my love for gold that ruined mc. I 
saw that thou had'st plenty, and kept it not so carefully as I 
who had but little. And a devil did prompt mc saying: "Get 
Isaac's jewels when he goeth to Jericho. Thou hast profited 
by the thieves before." But I said, "Nay, he is my friend; I 
will not have him harmed." But the evil voice spoke yet 
again: "The robbers will not harm him; they will but take 
his gems, and thou wilt get a third if thou wilt tell Malachi 
of his journey." 

Is. Ah, Simon, v/hy didst thou yield to a tempter within 
thyself? 

Si. I was torn with doubt; but my evil counselor whis- 
pered yet again: "No one w^ill suspect; least of all Isaac; 
and thou can'st be rich, rich, rich." I could no longer endure, 
and even while I talked with thee, 1 planned thy ruin. 

Is. Then, Simon, thy love for gold outweighed thy love 
forme. {Putting his hand to his eyes.) Go, Simon, go. lean 
bear the sight of thee no longer. 

Si. Oh, Isaac, can'st thou never forgive me? 

Is. Yea, Simon, I forgive thee now; but never more can I 
call thee friend. Go, Simon. 

Si. Ah, I have lost that which is more precious than gold; 
the love of a godly man. (Exit, l.) 

Le. Oh, father, I grieve for thy suffering. 

Is. Nay, child, if only thou bs happy 'tis all my wish. 

Jos. I will leave thee, sir, until thou 

Is. Nay, Joseph, I know what thou would'st say; but as 



THE GOOD SAMARITAN 35 

soon as may be I will forget my sorrow. Thy noble deed 
will be as a li^ht in the darkness of my deepest grief. {Ris- 
ing and placing the hands o/Leah and Joseph together.) Leah, 
my daughter, thou hast thy heart's desire. Joseph, my son, I 
give thee my most priceless treasure, Leah. 

Mar. May Jehovah bless ye, my children. 

Is. Ay, and may all the world know that thou, despised 
of my people, hast done what a priest and a Levite refused 
to do. And thou that in all future time hcarest of the deed 
of this Samaritan, learn thou to love the Lord thy God with 
all thy heart, and thy neighbor as thyself. 

(TABLEAU.) 
Marah. Isaac. Peter. Rebecca. 

Joseph. Leah. 

(CURTAIN.) 



NOV 29 ism 



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